What is LASIK?
 

LASIK, short for "laser in-situ keratomileusis", is a laser vision correction procedure designed to reduce or eliminate your dependence on corrective lenses. It is used to treat myopia/nearsightedness, (when the eyeball is too long or the corneal curvature is too steep and focuses the rays of light in front of the retina), and/or astigmatism, (when the cornea is not uniformly curved and focuses the light rays unevenly on the retina). LASIK can now be used to correct presbyopia. This natural loss of focusing ability normally occurs around age 40 and may require the use of bifocals or reading glasses. LASIK can also treat farsighted individuals.

LASIK reshapes the cornea by using an automated instrument called a microkeratome to create and lift a thin flap of tissue from the top layer of the cornea, to reveal the middle layers. This "flap" remains attached on one side.

These middle layers are then precisely reshaped by the excimer laser, a "cool" ultra-violet laser light, to correct the problem curve of the cornea. This then allows light to focus properly on the retina, resulting in clearer vision.

The "flap" or top layer of the cornea is then repositioned in its original position and these layers of the cornea then adhere together naturally without the use of stitches.

Does it hurt to have done?
The LASIK procedure itself is almost painless. Anesthetic eyedrops are used to make the surface of the eye entirely numb, so there is minimal or no discomfort from the procedure. Patients have improved vision immediately following the procedure. Many patients feel a "scratchiness", 2-4 hours afterward, some "corneal haze", and their eyes may be light sensitive for a few days, but the vast majority can return to work the day after surgery. Over the ensuing weeks, they can expect continuing improvement in their vision. Many patients feel that having LASIK done beats a good day at the dentist from a comfort point of view.
 

But I don't like to have someone touch my eyes.
 

It is natural to feel very protective of the eyes. During the procedure you are awake, but will rest comfortably in a recliner-type chair. The eyelids are held open by a special device, so there is no need to worry about blinking inadvertently. The surgeon programs the computer which controls the laser pulses. You will be instructed to stare at a tiny red light while the laser pulses. The laser pulses occur for about 20 to 60 seconds. The laser light is invisible and you won't see any sharp things coming toward you. The procedure lasts less than 10 minutes.

While it is natural to have reservations about having anything done involving the eyes, Dr. Mack and his staff are very experienced in setting patients at ease. It is very helpful to discuss the procedure with someone who has had it done, because it is very straightforward.

Does it work and will it last?
Yes and yes. There is widespread agreement in the ophthalmic community on these 2 points. The effect has not been shown to wear off over time like a face-lift might. The first eyes were treated with LASIK in 1987 and these patients' vision has remained quite stable. While you may still require weak prescription lenses for some tasks, more than 99% of Dr. Mack's patients can pass a driver's test without corrective lenses.

Reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses.
 

What if something goes wrong?
As with all medical procedures, there are challenges and risks involved with LASIK, an FDA-approved procedure. No cases of blindness have occurred in the estmated over one million procedures performed worldwide. The risk of a vision-threatening event is very small, and is known to be less than that of infections due to contact lenses. In addition to some post-operative discomfort, light sensitivity, night glare, halo effect around lights, and/or "corneal haze" may occur during healing, but these usually diminish over time. These side effects are often less than what contact lens wearers experience. The unintended over- or under-correction can occur as well. All of these side effects or complications typically correct themselves naturally during the healing process or can be corrected with a simple follow-up procedure. There are other risks involved, and Dr. Mack hopes to provide you with a balanced perspective of the risks, benefits and alternatives to refractive surgery at the time of your examination.

Am I a candidate?
Only after a complete eye exam will Dr. Mack know if LASIK or other refractive surgical procedures would be appropriate for you. Anyone who attends our refractive surgery seminar, is entitled to a LASIK evaluation. We require that patients be at least 18 years of age, be free of any uncontrolled eye disease and be in good general health.

Does insurance cover laser vision correction?

Most insurance providers do not cover laser vision correction, or LASIK. However, call your insurance provider to learn about your particular coverage and benefits. For Vision Service Plan members (VSP) we are providers for laser vision correction only, and do participate in many other similar plans. If you are not sure about coverage or participation, please contact our office and we will be happy to help you.

Does the doctor's training matter if the laser does all the work?

Yes, very much so. While any ophthalmologist can technically perform refractive procedures, very few ophthalmologists are fellowship-trained in corneal and refractive surgery. A true fellowship is a year or more which is devoted entirely to hands-on sub-specialty training in the presence of an expert. Many cornea specialists currently practicing completed training at a time before refractive surgery was part of the curriculum.

In summary, better vision can give you a new outlook on life. Whether it is the ability to swim, drive, or function in a crisis situation, independence is a good feeling to have. With today's technology, it is no longer necessary to go through your life depending entirely on corrective lenses to see what you're doing.

Millions of people worldwide have successfully undergone laser refractive surgery, and the number continues to grow. Chicago LASIK surgeon Robert Mack, M.D. finds that for most patients, LASIK and Custom LASIK are the procedures of choice. If you have questions about other types of Laser Eye Surgery he will be pleased answer them. Dr. Mack takes pride in providing world class LASIK care in Chicago for patients seeking LASIK from all over Illinois as well as from throughout the midwest.  For Lasik in the Los Angeles area, we recommend Dr. Robert Maloney.  Please visit his web site at www.maloneyvision.com.

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